John Farrell on ‘aggressive’ Jose Iglesias: ‘No one’s going to take away from what he’s done’

The joyride that has been the first six games of the season for Jose Iglesias may be coming to an end soon. But Iglesias is at least making the Red Sox think about his roster spot when Stephen Drew returns to active status from his concussion.

Red Sox manager John Farrell acknowledged before Monday’s home opener that when Drew returns, Iglesias will likely be replaced as the starting shortstop. Barring any more freeze outs, Drew is expected to play in one more rehab game with Double-A Portland before joining the Red Sox for Wednesday’s game against the Orioles.

Iglesias certainly has made the decision more difficult for Farrell and the Red Sox by starting out 9-for-17 in five games for the Red Sox.

‘I think we probably have to wait for that move to take place first,’ Farrell said. ‘But no one’s going to take away from what he’s done. If it turns out that that’s the move, then, much like any player who’s gotten off to a good start, it’ll be hard [for Iglesias] to swallow it. But there’s got to be an understanding of [how] personal and organizational goals align. And sometimes [they’re not the same].

‘What he’s done is he’s clearly shown that not only do we have a now-ready shortstop [but] if, it turns out that he becomes depth for us, he’s made very good strides, particularly at the plate.’

Iglesias’ spectacular defense has again been on display in the first week of the season. That confidence has finally spilled over offensively, with the assistance of some well-placed infield hits. Only one of Iglesias’ nine hits have found the outfield. What has Farrell thought of his approach so far?

‘Aggressive,’ Farrell said. ‘He’s made contact. He’s found some holes. He’s beat out a couple of infield hits. He’s taking aggressive swings, much like we talked about in spring training. He’s in a pretty good place, back to a natural swing that’s got some pull to it, but that’s what works best for him. He’s also used the bunt on occasion to keep some defenders honest with him. He’s picked out some good spots against left-handed starters to push bunt. And we’ve seen his glove work at shortstop has been outstanding.’

The Red Sox were hoping the signing of Drew in December to a one-year, $9.5 million contract would light a fire under the 23-year-old Iglesias. So far, so good.

‘I think he came in with and expressed some thoughts after the singing of Stephen over the winter,’ Farrell said. ‘And I think he was determined to show some things differently, whether how he went about his work, [or] what he did inside of given games. He [got] a break because of an unfortunate situation with Stephen and he’s made the most of it.’